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TBZ → IST
Which side of the plane to sit from Tabriz International Airport (Tabriz) to Istanbul Airport (Istanbul)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a superior sequence of views, starting with the vibrant, shifting colors of Lake Urmia and concluding with a panoramic perspective of Istanbul's historical peninsula and the Bosphorus Strait during the descent into IST.
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Lake Urmia
Witness the unique red and orange hues of this hypersaline lake shortly after departing Tabriz.
Mount Nemrut
Visible to the south of the flight path, this dormant volcano features a large caldera lake.
Lake Van
Glimpse the vast turquoise waters of Turkey's largest lake and its rugged shoreline.
Istanbul Peninsula
Exceptional views of the Golden Horn, Hagia Sophia, and the dense urban fabric of the old city on approach.
The Bosphorus
Watch the maritime traffic flowing between the Black Sea and the Sea of Marmara.
On morning flights, the sun is to the south, so sitting on the left side provides better lighting for the Iranian landscape. During the final descent, the left side usually faces the city center if the aircraft approaches from the south or east.
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Mount Ararat
The legendary snow-capped peak and Turkey's highest mountain is a massive presence to the north.
Pontic Mountains
The lush, green northern ranges of Anatolia provide a stark contrast to the central plateau.
Black Sea Coastline
Enjoy views of the deep blue Euxine Sea as the flight path parallels the northern coast.
Yavuz Sultan Selim Bridge
The northernmost bridge of the Bosphorus is often clearly visible as you approach Istanbul Airport.
The right side is the definitive choice for mountain enthusiasts wishing to see Mount Ararat. For afternoon flights, the sun is in the southwest, making the right side better for glare-free photography of the Black Sea coast.
Book Hotels in IstanbulDistance: 1,533 km (953 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 3 min
Departure: TBZ (38.1338996887207, 46.23500061035156)
Arrival: IST (41.275278, 28.751944)
Route Type: International
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